Marubeni Partners with RZ Resources to Invest in Australian Critical Minerals Initiative

Investment Agreement: Marubeni has signed an agreement to invest A$15 million for a 5% equity stake in RZ Resources' critical minerals project in Australia, which focuses on developing a mineral sands mine and upgrading a processing plant.

Strategic Partnerships: The project has gained strategic partnership support from JX Advanced Metals to accelerate development, with plans to enhance the mineral separation plant and conduct feasibility studies.

Geopolitical Context: The initiative addresses rising geopolitical risks and aims to secure stable supplies of critical minerals and rare earths, essential for industries like aerospace and defense, particularly for Japan, which heavily relies on imports.

Future Expansion Plans: Marubeni intends to expand into midstream and downstream segments to create an integrated supply chain, enhancing its role in the critical minerals market.